Fronteras Desk

Planned Parenthood of Arizona sues to block new state law

Planned Parenthood of Arizona has sued the state. As KJZZ’s Mark Brodie reports, it’s trying to block a new state law banning public money from going to organizations that provide abortions from taking effect next month.

MARK BRODIE: Planned Parenthood says federal law requires Medicaid recipients to be able to choose their health care provider. The group says it served close to 3,000 Arizonans on Medicaid in the 12 months ending at the end of May. Planned Parenthood of Arizona President and CEO Bryan Howard says if this law goes into effect, they’d have to find another provider.

BRYAN HOWARD: They are seeking out, and need in their lives family planning services, and in many cases, are coming to us either because we’re the only provider in their neighborhood, the only provider that is easily accessible, or because they trust us.

BRODIE: Planned Parenthood says it’s gotten similar laws enjoined in other states … and Howard says he’s confident a federal judge here will do the same. Officials with AHCCCS, the state’s Medicaid program, did not return calls seeking comment.

In a statement, Cathi Herrod, President of the Cener for Arizona Policy, says "Arizonans don't want their taxpayer dollars funding abortion. The reality is that abortion not only ends the life of a preborn child, but also harms women. This is not an industry that deserves any taxpayer funds."